Every year, more and more tourists visit the Galápagos Islands. In 2003 over 90,000 people came to the islands with the highest numbers of visitors in July and August.

Although tourism gives a financial boost to the Ecuadorian government, it also causes problems ranging from waste disposal to endangering delicate habitats. In order to minimize the impact on the Galápagos, tourists are restricted to certain areas of the Islands and must be accompanied by a guide.